Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with numerous tight knots (knotty appearance) and distinct growth rings visible on the end grain.
Color & Appearance
Striking contrast between the deep reddish-brown or purple heartwood and the pale yellowish-white sapwood. Luster is medium. Colors tend to shift and mellow toward a more uniform brown with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively freshly milled or recently harvested based on vibrant color and lack of heavy surface weathering, though growth rings indicate the tree itself was decades old.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, highly sustainable and abundant throughout its native range, not listed on CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Lining closets and chests, fence posts, outdoor furniture, small woodworking projects, rustic furniture, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can cause local grain tearout. Glues and finishes well, though high natural oil content can sometimes interfere with certain finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Often left unfinished to preserve the aromatic scent. Water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, shellac, or wiping oils work well; shellac is useful as a sealer if natural oils bleed through.
Notable Features
Distinctive, highly pleasant aromatic scent that acts as a natural moth repellant. Contains natural decay-resistant oils.
